Michael Scott: CAs are changing the world
As we’re getting closer to the Future Generation Event, and the announcement of our 2019 One Young CA, we had a chat with last year’s One Young CA winner, Michael Scott, about the award’s influence on his professional growth and perception of what it means to be a CA.
Michael moved into a new role at DPS Group as Group Financial Controller in October 2018, just four months after being named One Young CA at the ICAS Young CAs Summit in London.
“The move from practice into industry was inevitable for me,” he admitted. “That progression was a career goal I had been working towards for some time and the experience of being in the 2018 Top 100 Young CAs, let alone named One Young CA, instilled a greater level of confidence and self-belief.
“I was more willing to accept new and bigger challenges, tackling them head-on with enthusiasm and conviction.”
Representing Young CAs and the vision ICAS has for the next generation has provided an opportunity to engage, listen and learn from fellow CAs working at all levels.
Michael has always maintained that he did not expect to win the award last year and holds his fellow CAs in high regard.
“’CA is a sincere mark of an ethical, trustworthy, well-educated financial professional. It is an identity to be proud of and the role of One Young CA is a significant responsibility.
“To be a part of the global CA community, which is well recognised and highly respected, is a privilege. CAs are leading change, facilitating, developing business and supporting economic stability. I am Proud to be a CA.”
Michael acts as Treasurer on the Board of Trustees for Fife Gingerbread, supporting vulnerable families in his local community, as well as working with HCPT The Pilgrimage Trust, which organises and facilitates spiritual retreats abroad for disabled and disadvantaged children.
Social equality and development are both causes that Michael believes CA skills can make an invaluable contribution to.
I am confident that the next generation of CAs include future leaders who will drive ethical business and make a difference.
“Representing Young CAs and the vision ICAS has for the next generation has provided an opportunity to engage, listen and learn from fellow CAs working at all levels,” he explained.
“I am delighted knowing that in addition to the high ethical standards, professional competence and technical ability expected from ICAS members, there is also a growing emphasis on social awareness, charitable causes and community spirit.
“I have had the privilege to learn in real terms how CAs are contributing to sustainable changes within their local communities and across the world. I am confident that the next generation of CAs include future leaders who will drive ethical business and make a difference.”
With such a high opinion of the standard and potential of his peers, Michael shared what he foresees in the next One Young CA.
“Someone who is redefining the profession and using the designation to impact their communities and wider society,” he stated. “CAs are changing the world - there is a real sense of love and passion for making a positive difference in the world.
Meet Michael, and more inspiring young CAs, in London on 11 September as we present the prestigious One Young CA 2019 award and hear from the Top 100 Young CA category winners in Technology, Trust and Talent.